Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Abdulmohsen bin Khothaila, warned about the growing threat of space debris. Addressing the 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council, he emphasized that space debris endangers human rights and sustainable development.
Speaking on behalf of 123 countries, Khothaila stressed the critical need for outer space sustainability to benefit humanity’s future. He highlighted that advancements in space have revolutionized communications, weather forecasting, and disaster management, all crucial for protecting fundamental human rights globally.
Space Debris Poses a Serious Threat
The Saudi ambassador pointed out the increase of space debris poses significant risks to the infrastructure supporting these vital services. This threat, he noted, could severely hinder the global community’s ability to protect and promote basic human rights.
Khothaila linked the issue to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 9 and Goal 11 for sustainability. He emphasized that effective space debris management is essential for preserving access to vital technologies and services globally. These services, he noted, include weather monitoring, disaster response, and other critical infrastructure functions that depend on space-based technology systems.
UN Bodies Support Saudi Arabia’s Concerns
The UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) echoed Khothaila’s concerns. Both organizations emphasized that managing space debris is crucial for ensuring space operations’ safety, environmental protection, and global security.
They highlighted the significant role satellite services play in promoting human rights and advancing sustainable development worldwide. Urging immediate global cooperation, they called for collective action to address the increasing challenge posed by space debris accumulation.
